City managers are professionally trained administrators appointed by city councils to oversee the daily operations of municipal government, providing expert management of city departments, finances, and staff under the council-manager form of local government.

There are 52 states with City Manager locations across the United States. Approximately 3,500 cities and counties in the United States operate under the council-manager form of government, making the city manager one of the most common models for professional municipal administration in the country.

City Manager in the United States

Browsing by state helps residents, businesses, and civic organizations identify the city manager's office responsible for administrative decisions, service delivery, and the implementation of city council policies in their municipality.

Common Services

  • Coordination and oversight of all municipal department operations
  • Annual budget preparation and financial management reporting
  • City staff recruitment, personnel management, and organizational planning
  • Strategic planning, performance measurement, and long-term community goal implementation

Residents with complaints about city services, questions about administrative processes, or interest in city initiatives can contact the city manager's office directly. The office can direct inquiries to the right department and provides a point of escalation when issues are not resolved at the department level.

For official information, visit International City/County Management Association (ICMA).

City Manager by State
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About City Manager

City managers are appointed professional administrators who oversee day-to-day operations of municipal government under the council-manager form of government. Unlike elected mayors, city managers are hired on the basis of professional qualifications and are accountable to the city council. They supervise department heads, implement council policies, prepare the annual budget, and serve as the chief administrative officer of the city.

Common Services

  • Coordination of municipal department operations and services
  • Annual budget preparation and presentation to the city council
  • Staff hiring, personnel management, and organizational oversight
  • Strategic planning and long-term community goal implementation

Residents who have questions about city services, administrative decisions, or want to provide feedback on city operations can contact the city manager's office. While policy decisions rest with the elected council, the city manager's office can direct inquiries to the appropriate department and provide information on ongoing city initiatives.

For official information, visit International City/County Management Association (ICMA).